All you need to know about taking a domestic flight before booking tickets

The government has announced that domestic flights will resume from May 25. It’s a given that how we travel won’t be the same, so here are all the guidelines that you need to take note of before you board the next plane.

Lockdown 4.0 has lifted many restrictions and life is gradually inching towards a new normal. A happy addition to this is the re-commencement of domestic flights. The government has lifted the ban on operations of inland flights, and it’s set to restart on May 25. While the centre has given approval, airlines can determine which airports they want to operate out of, basis the state of the coronavirus safety in regions. And the states too can open or close their borders depending on the same factor.

The civil aviation ministry has spelt out rules to be followed when taking domestic flights and has also put a cap on the pricing for three months. The Delhi-Mumbai flights will have a range of Rs 2,500 to Rs 10,000, with at least 40 per cent of the seats sold at less than the mid-point of this price range. This cap will be in play for three months, up till August 24. The routes will be divided into seven categories, as per the time duration of the flight. Forty minutes being the shortest and 210 minutes being the longest.

There’s also an extensive list of guidelines to be followed for both passengers and staff. Here’s how the new flying experience is going to be like.

Before journey

Passengers from containment zones not allowed

Passengers to use Aarogya Setu app or self-declaration form to prove they’re safe from COVID-19

Only web-check in allowed

One check-in bag per passenger; baggage tag to be printed online and attached to luggage

Report to airport two hours before flights

Face masks are essential

Maintain social distancing at all places, follow markers and signs for this

At The Airport

Passengers must wear a mask at all times

Passenger will go through thermal screening

Bag drop must be done at least one hour before flight

Receipt of the bag drop off at counter will be confirmed via SMS

The staff will check passengers’ status of Aarogya Setu. If they don’t have the app, they need to download it right there. Children below 14 don’t need the App.